Historic Neighbourhoods

Strathcona, Downtown Eastside (DTES), Chinatown, Gastown, and Yaletown are the oldest neighbourhoods in Vancouver. These historic neighbourhoods are a part of Vancouver's past, and will continue to play an important role in Vancouver's future. These vibrant neighbourhoods host a huge variety of interesting arts and cultural events, festivals, facilities, and services. Details on what's new and what's happening in Yaletown are found on our Downtown area page. You can stay up to date with news and events affecting our other historic neighbourhoods on the Hastings area page.

On this page, you will find information about city initiatives affecting these historic neighbourhoods and other heritage-related topics.

City Planning & Park Board initiatives

Creating projects that restore our founding neighbourhoods' original public appeal through improvements to public spaces, support for arts and cultural activities, celebrations, and street festivals for both residents and visitors.